Lake Co. YMCA holds Back-To-School Blast Off Aug. 20

Kick off the new school year at the Lake County Family YMCA free Back-to-School Blast Off Aug. 20.

As part of the Y's commitment to support the community, school supplies will be distributed to children to help get their school year started off right. Supplies are limited, so come early.

The event will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 20, at the Northern Lake YMCA, 2000 Western Ave, Waukegan.

“The Back-to-School Blast Off is our end-of-summer celebration, but this year we are excited to be helping the children in our community. The YMCA nurtures the potential of children, and we want to ensure that all children have the tools they need to be successful,” Lake County Family YMCA Special Projects Coordinator Makayla Cansler said.

Families can enjoy a DJ, water-balloon toss, hula-hoop contest, laser tag, face painting, obstacle courses and inflatable bouncers. The Waukegan Police Department will give a safety-tips presentation and showcase its K-9 unit. Light concessions also will be available for purchase.

The Lake County Family YMCA has been running a school supply drive at both its Waukegan and Vernon Hills Ys and throughout Lake County to collect school supply donations for this event.

“Through the support of our members and the community, we empower our kids to be healthy, confident and connected,” Cansler added.

To donate funds or supplies, or for more information, call Cansler at (847) 367-6797.

Sponsors include: Ernie Peterson Plumbing, Legat Architects, Peterson Products, Stauber Hardware and Power Maintenance.

The Lake County Family YMCA is a cause-driven nonprofit that strengthens the community through programs and services that foster youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Founded in 1892 as a 501 (C) 3 nonprofit, our association is comprised of the Central Lake YMCA in Vernon Hills, Northern Lake YMCA in Waukegan and Early Head Start in Waukegan.